On Thursday 29th May 2014, a collective team of 45 enthusiastic volunteers from the AGSM Social Impact and Women in Leadership clubs, and the UNSW Volunteer Army took to the pavements of UNSW Kensington, Sydney, Australia in support of Cystic Fibrosis NSW’s “65 Roses” Campaign.

The evening prior the volunteers had the pleasure of being welcomed at a presentation from CF NSW CEO Michele Adair, who discussed the challenges in managing a not-for-profit in Australia. Michele was appointed CEO of CFNSW after a career in the commercial, health and community sectors. Before transitioning from the corporate to the ‘for-purpose’ sector Michele ran a consultancy for 20 years which specialised in strategy and organisational performance. Her blue chip client portfolio spanned publicly listed companies, professional service firms, government, education and the arts. Immediately prior to CFNSW, Michele was responsible for national consumer programs that improved the quality use of medicines and medical tests for NPS Medicinewise. She has also been the head of services for Alzheimer’s NSW and held national roles at The Smith Family and Mission Australia.

CFNSW plays a vital role in providing sufferers with practical assistance, education and information, outreach, hospital engagement and public advocacy. It does all of this on
a relatively limited income of $1.5million annually, of which, only 15% is provided for by the government. CFNSW relies heavily on appeals and donations in order to provide these services. CFNSW is clearly making a difference in the lives of CF sufferers. It was encouraging
to see how Michele is using her skills gained from the corporate world and infusing them with
contagious energy to inspire others and drive real change at CFNSW.

“65 Roses” is what some children with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) call their disease because the words are much easier for them to pronounce. Since 1965, the term “65 Roses” has been used by children of all ages to describe their disease. However, making it easier to say does not make CF any easier to live with. The “65 Roses” story has captured the hearts and emotions of all who have heard it, and appropriately the rose as the ancient symbol of love has come to represent CF worldwide.

The AGSM Social Impact Club proudly announces that with our collaborative efforts a total of $3700.60 was raised for CF NSW. This donation will provide significant assistance in CF NSW’s initiatives to support the CF community.